Bear who surprised Johnstown residents goes back to habitat

A young black bear rests on its paw near a broken limb as another paw hangs down as it takes a nap in a tree at Weld County Road 17 and U.S. 34 on Monday. Division of Wildlife officials were keeping a close watch on the bear, which will most likely just climb down by itself after dark.

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The bear who surprised some Johnstown residents and napped the day away in a tree along U.S. 34 has made his way back to his normal habitat, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

The young black bear meandered along U.S. 34 between Weld County roads 15 and 17 early Monday morning and made a temporary home in a tree across from Peak Kia. After spending more than 12 hours in the highest branches, the bear climbed down about 7:30 p.m. and headed south toward the Big Thompson River, said Jennifer Churchill, spokeswoman for Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

She said her office has not received any more reports of the bear in the area.